The Chewjitsu Podcast

On this episode of the podcast, Chewy discusses why he needed to develop his “older grappler” BJJ game to adapt to training and to remain competitive against younger and more athletic grapplers. Chewy discusses how he started to discover this new element to his game, the position he would go to when fatigued, the moment Chewy decided to change his game, ideas on “uneven pressure” in side control, how to implement this style of grappling into your game, how to close the distance for chest to chest position, how to conserve your energy from top and when to move to the next position, what determines the effectiveness of the half guard position, the mantra for older grapplers, how to be more comfortable from bottom position, and one of the simplest ways to make your half guard passing more effective. To learn more about Chewy's new “Flow & Control” Program, check out http://chewjitsutraining.com/old Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Check out "Athlethc" at https://athlethc.com/ and use the code Chewjitsu10 to get 10% off of your order of hemp-derived THC performance mints.  Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://epicrollbjj.com/ and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the podcast, Chewy and Eugene discuss the importance of rest days and why many BJJ practitioners avoid rest days and taking time off. We start off the podcast by answering a question from “Bob,” who is a 47 y/o BJJ practitioner who tries to train daily and even some days twice per day. “Bob” says that by mid week he has a hard time with focused and technical training and feels that he needs to be on the mats as much as possible to learn. We give some advice to “Bob” on how to get the most out of training and the importance of the implementation of “rest days.” We also discuss the physical and mental signs of overtraining and how you can identify these signs and what to do about them. We also discuss why your ability to improve is related to your rate of recovery, how scrolling on social media can negatively impact concentration and learning information, and how to avoid falling behind in BJJ. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Check out "Athlethc" at https://athlethc.com/ and use the code Chewjitsu10 to get 10% off of your order of hemp-derived THC performance mints.  Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://epicrollbjj.com/ and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the podcast, Chewy and Eugene are joined by one of the Jiu-Jitsu pioneers in the Midwest, 4th degree BJJ Black Belt James Clingerman. James joins the podcast to discuss celebrating the 25th anniversary of his gym, his biggest marketing mistakes as a new gym owner, taking the risk to start a gym 25 years ago as a BJJ blue belt, how he had to rebuild his gym after losing most of his members, ideas on gym marketing, how to balance being a gym owner and training, the benefits of competing at a lighter weight class, what it was like running regional BJJ tournaments in the early 2000's, his biggest business mistakes, overcoming social anxiety, and finding joy in competing. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Check out "Athlethc" at https://athlethc.com/ and use the code Chewjitsu10 to get 10% off of your order of hemp-derived THC performance mints.  Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://epicrollbjj.com/ and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the podcast, we are joined by Olympian, 9X U.S. National Champion, 3X World Medalist, and BJJ Purple Belt Jake Herbert. Jake is a husband, father of four, and business coach. Jake discusses his start in wrestling, how he got his kids to start training in grappling, pros and cons of specialization vs training in multiple sports, "living through your kids,” starting BJJ, the importance of camaraderie, how his training has changed as he has gotten older, training for longevity, making the decision to retire from wrestling, how finding religion was impactful for Jake, the importance of having a "white belt mentality," the importance of drilling and positional sparring for skill-development, and how to work with Jake for business coaching. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Check out "Athlethc" at https://athlethc.com/ and use the code Chewjitsu10 to get 10% off of your order of hemp-derived THC performance mints.  Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://epicrollbjj.com/ and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the podcast, we are joined by one of Chewy's first training partners, BJJ Black Belt Daniel Bertina. Daniel is a BJJ Black Belt and coach that lives in the Netherlands. Daniel discusses his early days in BJJ and his training sessions with Chewy, what training sessions were like in the early 2000's, ideas on decreasing injuries, recommendations for older grapplers, why you should make your BJJ as broad as possible, the optimal training environment, one thing that could be the death of martial arts, cultivating a positive gym environment, thoughts on "gym enforces," Jiu-Jitsu and mental health, deriving a deeper meaning from BJJ, and how fatherhood has changed Daniel. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Check out "Athlethc" at https://athlethc.com/ and use the code Chewjitsu10 to get 10% off of your order of hemp-derived THC performance mints.  Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://epicrollbjj.com/ and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode, Chewy and Eugene have fun with a comment that called Chewy “A Fruitcake That Likes To Play Graba$$”. This troll comment came in response to an e-mail Chewy sent out that stated “Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu helps you find yourself and lose yourself at the same time.” We discuss how Jiu-Jitsu can force you look at yourself and derive deeper meaning from life and also can be used as an escape from the stressors of life, the different ways to build confidence, using BJJ to overcome anxiety, how jiujitsu develops skill, and if it's possible to continue to train BJJ without ever developing deeper meaning from the martial art. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Check out "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://epicrollbjj.com/ and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the Chewjitsu Podcast, we are joined by BJJ Black Belt and gym owner AJ Clingerman. AJ discusses the start of her "Roll Models" BJJ Camps, the idea behind a women's only camp and what makes it unique from other camps, the challenges women face in BJJ, the importance of women's only classes, red flags for women in BJJ, why many women start training, how to grow a women's BJJ program, and getting more women to compete in tournaments. To learn more about AJ and her gym, check out https://rollmodelswanted.com/ and use code Chewy50 for $50 off the Roll Models Camp Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Check out "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this live recording of the podcast, we are joined by Strength & Nutrition Coach Eli Coffey. We discuss Eli's recovery from two shoulder replacements, strength training for grapplers, bulking and cutting weight, how to address common muscle imbalances in grapplers, Sport Specific vs. General Strength training, the "budget" for recovery, fat loss, signs of overtraining, and a Q&A section at the end. You can follow Eli on instagram @elicoffey_ and reach out for additional information at elicoffeycoaching@gmail.com Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Check out "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the podcast, Chewy and Eugene discuss Imposter Syndrome in BJJ and how to both overcome this and use it to your advantage. We discuss the problem with comparing yourself to others, if a high competitive environment a reason to change gyms, what Chewy looks for when promoting someone to their next belt rank, why Chewy doesn't prefer a strict curriculum for belt promotions, feeling like you have a target on your back after getting promoted, the “Garry Tonon Approach” to training in bad positions, how becoming a father can make yo better, stress and how you perceive it matters, why fewer black belts compete, the best strategy for overcoming imposter syndrome, and why belts are a representation and not the reality. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Check out "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode, Chewy and Eugene are joined by BJJ Black Belt and Tournament Director of The Chewjitsu Open, Jeff Alexander. Chewy and Jeff discuss the idea behind The Chewjitsu Open, what happened during the first ever Chewjitsu Open, the recipe that's made The Chewjitsu Open successful, why it's more difficult to get brown and black belts to compete, Chewy's most nerve-racking tournament experience, the biggest lesson learned form running the Chewjitsu Opens, biggest changes and challenges of running the tournaments, the mission behind the Chewjitsu Open, and what sets the Chewjitsu Open apart from other tournaments. If you are interested in competing in the next Chewjitsu Open, head over to https://chewjitsu.nuwaycombat.com/ to learn more. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Check out "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss BJJ competitions and how to get the most out of your competition experience. We discuss how competition makes your BJJ better, how competitions can help with training intensity, the realization regarding competition nerves, how to improve on failures in competition, how competition losses can be incredibly motivating, how to improve after good competition performances, the importance of set ups when studying film, when to get back to training after competition, and when to compete again. If you are interested in training with Chewy at one of his camps, check out https://www.chewjitsutraining.com/camp Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Check out "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

Joe Miller is the founder and CEO of “1st Optimal”, a telehealth functional medicine company dedicated to helping high performing men and women optimize their hormones, longevity, and overall health through personalized treatment plans that integrate lifestyle, exercise, supplementation, nutrition, and medications. With a deep passion for evidence-based medicine, functional health, and precision diagnostics, Joe has built a platform that bridges the gap between traditional healthcare and modern, proactive wellness strategies. On this episode Joe discusses how “1st Optimal” utilizes extensive testing to provide an optimal treatment plan to improve health and function, how the current healthcare model treats around “sick care” which limits treatment options as opposed to a Functional Medicine, gut health and what negatively effects it, recommendations for improved recovery, when to utilize carbohydrates for performance, energy, and recovery, common things that negatively impact hormones, the difference between total testosterone and free testosterone, natural supplements to boost testosterone production, negative effects from Testosterone, thoughts on steroids, and resources for supplements. To work with Joe and his team and learn more about "1st Optimal" head over to https://1stoptimal.com/ Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Check out "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast  

On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss why BJJ is so addicting. We discuss the “trifecta” that addicts BJJ athletes and three additional reasons that keep you “Mat Addicts” coming back for more. We also discuss some ideas on why people quit BJJ. The "BJJ Trifecta": Learning/Feedback loop. Stress Management. Community and social aspect. Three byproducts of the "BJJ Trifecta": Achieving “mindlessness” and “flow State.” Improved Fitness and lifestyle. Feeling of accomplishment skill acquisition. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Check out "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast  

On this episode, we are joined by former Division 1 Wrestler and BJJ purple belt Ian Daube. Ian discusses his start in wrestling and Judo, how a pec injury changed Ian's wrestling career, why he decided to quite his corporate job and become a full time grappler and how he transitioned out of the corporate world, the importance of aggression in a BJJ match, what helps him for competition prep, his thoughts on drilling, lifting for BJJ, his diet and conditioning for BJJ, thoughts on Overtraining, his favorite training partners, his favorite submissions, his thoughts on the future of BJJ, and how becoming a father changed him. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Check out "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode, Chewy and Eugene answer a question from Collin who asks, “How do you recognize and fix gym culture without enforcers, and also what do you do if one of the enforcers becomes a gym bully”? We discuss how and when a “gym enforcer” should be used, one of the most corrosive things that can happen in the gym, “Absolute Cancerous Behaviors” and “Relative Cancerous Behaviors,” some of the cancerous situations that Chewy had to address at the gym, something that would lead to immediate removal from the gym, reasons Chewy wouldn't promote a student, “pulling rank” at a gym, and our opinions on gauntlets. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Check out "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss a recent article that claims that you can get “ridiculously" strong for BJJ by just doing bodyweight exercises. We chat about the article in depth and where we agree and disagree with the writer's arguments.  We also discuss why some grapplers a resistant to lifting weights, how to properly use isometric exercises to strengthen your body, our thoughts on “Functional Exercises,” if incorporating more wrestling into your training will increase strength, if you will get stronger by training with heavier training partners, whether there is any benefit to doing bodyweight exercises, if drilling can improve “functional strength” for BJJ, if increased flexibility and mobility will improve strength, whether cardiovascular conditioning improves strength, and out overall thoughts on this article. Check out the link to the article to see what you think: https://www.bjjee.com/articles/how-to-get-ridiculously-strong-for-jiu-jitsu-without-lifting-weights/ Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Check out "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the podcast, Chewy and Eugene answer a question from Andy who says he isn't enjoying training in the Gi anymore and wants to eventually focus on MMA. So he wants to know, “Is the gi necessary?” We discuss the importance of goals to dictate your training, Chewy talks about how his opinion on the Gi has changed over the years, the law of specificity, if the Gi is more technical, Chewy's definition of being “technical,” why you should do both Gi and No-Gi as a beginner, the pros and cons to training both and training Gi or No-Gi exclusively. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Check out "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss some ideas on how to eliminate distractions in 2025 and achieve your goals in the new year. We discuss the idea of "Executers vs. Collectors," why you should “live like a dog,” the idea of “Alibi-itis,” minimizing distractions, why what you say “no” to is just as important as what you say “yes” to, adding and removing barriers, using your attention to promote growth, and what you can do daily to achieve your goals. To join the Chewjitsu Executers Challenge check out the link: https://www.chewjitsu.net/execute Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Check out "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the podcast, Chewy and Eugene reflect on the 2024 No-Gi Worlds. We discuss the lamest way to win a BJJ match, why you should complain to the IBJJF to enforce rule changes, why the way you win matters, the willingness to risk everything for a win, the reasons why we compete, if you lose…it's not all a loss, why warm ups are key for a good performance, why you shouldn't sweat the small stuff, and don't play "not to lose." Check out "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the podcast, Chewy and Eugene discuss some important tips for longevity in BJJ and training more intelligently as you get older. We discuss 7 Tips: Train to stimulate and don't annihilate (learn your limits). Train less, but with more focus. Treat life off the mat as an extension of training. Be disciplined with lifting. Let go of who you used to be. Choose techniques and positions carefully. Take a day off. Check out "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the podcast, Chewy and Eugene discuss why BJJ should not be an Olympic Sport. We discuss both pros and cons of Jiu-Jitsu in the Olympics, how the Olympic Judo rulesets have influenced the sport, why BJJ being in the Olympics will decrease the evolution of BJJ, how the variety in BJJ helps growth, the difference between amateur and professional athletes, what will help to continue to grow Jiu-Jitsu, the importance of the lifestyle element to Jiu-Jitsu 31, and why decreased regulations allow for more tournaments. Check out "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. You can use code CHEWJITSU50 on 12/2/2024 to get 50% off for a limited time. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the podcast, we are joined by University of Minnesota Head Assistant Coach, Luke Becker. Luke is an accomplished wrestler and the 2002 NCAA National Champion, 2002 and 2003 Big Ten Champion (157 pounds), Four-time NCAA All-American (2000-03), member of the 2001 and 2002 National Championship teams, and a member of the 2001, 2002 and 2003 Big Ten Championship teams. Luke is also an accomplished coach and has helped Gopher wrestlers earn 64 All-America certificates, a group that also includes eight individual Big Ten championships and three individual national championships. Also, during his time as assistant coach, the team has earned three trophy finishes at NCAA Championships. Luke joins the podcast to discuss his start in wrestling, finding a love for wrestling, skill development of athletes today as compared to when he started wrestling, his thoughts on drilling for skill development, the most difficult part of transitioning from high school to college wrestling, how to build mental and physical toughness, a typical wrestling practice, conditioning for grappling, common wrestling injuries, how to encourage and support your child in pursuing wrestling, the importance of having fun, training with Brock Lesnar, wrestlers transitioning to MMA, his favorite win and loss as a wrestler, and what it's like having Gable Steveson coming back to Minnesota to wrestle. Check out our newest sponsor "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements and gear. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. You can use code CHEWJITSU50 on 12/2/2024 to get 50% off for a limited time. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the podcast we are joined by BJJ Black Belt, Owner of Revive BJJ, and military veteran Nick Sanders. Nick Sanders started BJJ in 2006 after leaving active duty with the Army.  Nick served in Iraq in 2004-2005 as an infantryman with the First Infantry Division.  While in Iraq, he received several awards including the Purple Heart and Combat Infantryman's Badge.  Nick is still currently serving in a scout/sniper platoon with the Missouri National Guard. Nick joins the podcast to discuss his start in martial arts and BJJ, being a Scout Sniper in the military, the most important ideas  for improving in BJJ as you get older, his training schedule as he has gotten older, the importance of strategy for winning in competition, qualities of a good training partner, important ideas for longevity in BJJ, "Mat Enforcers," eing targeted when training at other gyms, the importance of a good gym culture, and starting his gym, “Revive BJJ.” You can check out our new sponsor "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements and gear. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. You can use code CHEWJITSU50 on 12/2/2024 to get 50% off for a limited time. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast  

On this episode of the podcast, we are once again joined by Origin CEO and BJJ black belt Pete Roberts. Pete discusses the process of shifting his role when he became the CEO of Origin, why Pete feels that this was the first year that he actually “worked,” why you should change where you get your dopamine, why you shouldn't put anyone on a pedestal, why Jiu-Jitsu is a metaphor for life, someone who has guided Pete becoming a better CEO, the challenges of bringing manufacturing back to America, the issues with consumerism, how the trajectory of manufacturing may change with a new president, the difference between "free trade" and "fair trade," why Pete wants to get back to the roots of Origin, how Jiu-Jitsu Principles can be applied to business, how Jiu-Jitsu has remained a big part of his life, and why he has been training more No-Gi BJJ. You can check out our new sponsor "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements and gear. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. You can use code CHEWJITSU50 starting 11/28/2024 to get 50% off for a limited time. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast  

Ryan Aitken is a 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, ADCC veteran, EBI Absolute Champion, Combat Jiu-Jitsu Champion, and the PGF Season 7 champion. Ryan joins the podcast to discuss his start in Jiu-Jitsu, deciding to switch gyms to train with Sean Applegate at 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu Atlanta, important concepts that are forgotten in Jiu-Jitsu, strengthening and training the body for longevity, Ryan's unique way to improve hand-eye coordination, his experience competing in season 7 of the Professional Grappling Federation, most valuable lesson learned from the PGF competition, his thoughts on training leg locks, and how Ryan started working with "Grapple Science." You can check out our new sponsor "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements and gear. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss a new rule for Jiu-Jitsu. We chat about why you should avoid being a sore loser. We chat about some of our tournament experiences, why you should avoid posting your frustrations about a tournament on social media, a useful way to get your frustrations out, who to stop being "fragile," how to be less emotionally charged after a loss, the dangers of expectations, how the ruleset of the Chewjitsu Open incentivizes submissions and attacking, the importance of incentive structures instead of punishments, how to deal with a student who shows bad sportsmanship, and the importance of leading through actions. You can check out our new sponsor "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements and gear. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss some white belt BJJ tips that came from a Reddit BJJ forum. We break down 8 pieces of advice and discuss whether we agree or disagree with them. Here is the list: Never date a girl/guy from the gym, (it's easier to get better when you enjoy the place where you train). Stop trying to win. It makes you get hurt. Just get sweaty. Relax…Jiu-Jitsu is like farting. If you have to force it then it's probably sh*t. Baby every injury (also tap quick). Technique is everything. Ask questions in person (don't skip rounds) Recalibrate intensity and err on the side of too easy. 2 x a week for 10 years is better than 2 x a day for 3 years. You can check out our new sponsor "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements and gear. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the podcast, Chewy and Eugene discuss 8 types of training partners to avoid rolling with. Here are the 8 types of people to avoid during rolling: “Let's Go Light Guy” “The Stinky Gi Guy” “The Staph Spreader” “Mr. Sniffles” “White Belt Wolverine” “The Hot Box Bro” “The Locker Room Talker” “Mr./Mrs. Mundials” You can check out our new sponsor "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements and gear. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the podcast, we chat about another rule for Jiu-Jitsu. In this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss the idea of how unremarkable things lead to progress and improvement. We discuss the importance of unremarkable activities to build a solid foundation, how to find joy in the unremarkable things, the importance of perspective, the importance of basics, the value of having enthusiasm for what you do 28 clip, our thoughts on motivation, inspiration, and momentum, how all grapplers can be better about doing the unremarkable things, and when to focus on doing "remarkable" things. You can check out our new sponsor "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements and gear. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the podcast, we are joined by BJJ Black Belts GW and John from “Grapple Science.”  GW and John are the co-founders of “Grapple Science,” a supplement company to help with performance for grapplers. GW and John discuss how they started in BJJ, how their BJJ games have evolved and changed since they have gotten older, the benefits of competition for older grapplers, why GW avoided training in the Gi when he first started BJJ to initially to now only training in the Gi, whether Gi or No-Gi is easier for older grapplers, how John and GW met and started working together at a company called “Kill Cliff,” the idea behind starting “Grappling Science,” the concept behind the “Grapple Science Cognition” nootropic for improved focus for grapplers, the feedback people have reported on the benefits of the “Cognition” supplement, and how caffeine can decrease performance. You can check out our new sponsor "Grapple Science" at https://grapplescience.com/ and use the code CHEWJITSU20 for 20% off of your purchase of supplements and gear. Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the podcast, we are joined by Team Lloyd Irvin Black Belt, 2024 ADCC veteran, Europeans Champion, and ADCC Trials Champion Elijah Dorsey. Elijah joins the podcast to discuss his start in grappling, his thoughts on training both Gi and No-Gi, an attribute that's most beneficial for Gi and No-Gi, how Elijah transitioned from predominantly training Gi to competing at a high level in No-Gi, how Elijah trains his cardio for BJJ, thoughts on drilling and making drilling more effective, the attributes of an effective coach, tournament preparation, and how Elijah got his nickname “Big Breakfast.” Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the podcast we are joined by BJJ black belt Shawn Hammonds. Shawn shares how he discovered BJJ, the early days of acquiring techniques and learning new techniques, the importance of position and proper posture, Shawn's start in competition, how Shawn met Lloyd Irvin and the impact he made on Shawn's career, how Chewy learned to drill and improve his techniques from Shawn, Shawn's philosophy on teaching techniques, the attributes that make a good competitor, favorite competition memory, thoughts on the evolution of Jiu-Jitsu, the benefits of competing in the Masters divisions, how to maximize skill while decreasing wear and tear on the body, training around injuries, and the challenges of running a Jiu-Jitsu Association. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the podcast, Chewy and Eugene are joined by BJJ black belt, former MMA fighter, and Doctor of Physical Therapy Mike Piekarski. We discuss Mike's start in martial arts and becoming a Doctor of Physical Therapy, his treatment philosophies for warming up and preparing the body for training Jiu-Jitsu, how Mike started working with Jiu-Jitsu athletes, the biggest mistakes people make in rehab and recovery, body and joint maintenance, how "Functional Range Conditioning" is utilized in improving joint function and joint health, what type of online content that is bad advice, ACL return to sport ideas, Mike and Eugene discuss their course “The Mat Return” which guides return to BJJ after injury, common mobility issues found in BJJ athletes, and ideas on return to BJJ after an injury. Check out more of Mike's content here: https://www.instagram.com/doctor_kickass/ Check out "The Mat Return" course here: https://bjjfanatics.com/products/mat-return-by-michael-piekarski-and-eugene-tsozik Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

Brandon Mccaghren is a 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, owner of 10th Planet Decatur, and a Jiu-Jitsu commentator. Brandon returns to the podcast to discuss the evolution of the "Professional Grappling League" (PGF) and what has changed from season 1 to season, how he got involved with the "Craig Jones Invitational" (CJI) as a commentator, how the CJI “Alley” and ruleset encouraged action and excitement, his philosophies on making a Jiu-Jitsu match exciting, how to reward offense in Jiu-Jitsu, what makes the PGF format so fast paced and exciting to watch, unique ideas on stalling calls in grappling matches, his thoughts on Kade Ruotolo and Levi Jones-Leary match at CJI, the pros and cons of viewing a match at CJI, what to expect at PGF season 7, why attention is currency, and Brandon's business advice when hiring someone. Learn more about the PGF here: https://www.pgf.world/ Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode, we talk to the producers of the Craig Jones Invitational, Eddie Marquez and Todd Ferrante. Eddie is a Jiu-Jitsu black belt and event producer and Todd is the senior producer of Karate Combat and has produced other events such as The X-Games. On this episode, Eddie and Todd discuss how they got involved working with Craig Jones and producing the CJI, how they made adjustments to the CJI on the fly, the challenges of producing a Jiu-Jitsu event, the difficulty of setting up “The Alley,” changes they made from day 1 to day 2 of the CJI, their plans to improve the event, their proudest moments, their goals of working with the Fair Fight Foundation, the biggest challenges to making Jiu-Jitsu events viewer friendly, Ideas for CJI #2 and the future of grappling, and favorite memory from the CJI. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

Chewy and Eugene discuss dealing with “Seminar Snipers” and also some ideas on how to slow down a roll. Chewy discusses dealing with seminar participants that go really hard during the rolling rounds, how to slow down a roll at a seminar, setting an intention at a seminar, the biggest breakthrough in Chewy's BJJ, declining a roll with a training partner, how to roll with less intensity, and how physical trauma can impact how you roll in BJJ. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss the idea of developing the mindset to lose like a champion. Chewy shares his experience coaching at the ADCC, how elite level athletes develop a unique mindset when dealing with a loss, impressive ADCC and CJI performances, assessing Gordon Ryan's perfomance, thoughts on competing with injuries, the importance of sponsors for the success of grappling events, thoughts on sustainability of fighter pay, thoughts on Lucas “Hulk” Barbosa's shoulder injury, thoughts on the Levi and Kade match decision, ideas on clearer scoring and improving scoring criteria for CJI, and CJI trolls. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode, Chewy and Eugene recap their weekend in Las Vegas and discuss what it was like attending the 2024 ADCC Worlds and the inaugural Craig Jones Invitational. We discuss how using the “pit” at CJI effected the matches, our thoughts on the use of rounds, the 10-point must scoring system, open scoring, and judging criteria for the CJI. We also discuss the challenges of the ADCC ruleset, CJI trolls, rule changes that could make the matches more exciting in the ADCC, the biggest upsets and surprises of the tournaments, thoughts on whether Gordon Ryan's skill is declining, the best performances of the weekend, future match ups, and building a sustainable grappling organization. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

David Avellan is a BJJ black belt, ADCC 2009 Bronze Medalist, creator of “The Kimura Trap System,” and owner of the Freestyle Fighting Academy. On this episode, David shares his start in martial arts, transitioning to wrestling, lessons learned from wrestling, starting a gym with minimal training and no business experience, how he raised money for the gym by running tournaments, how working with Lloyd Irvin changed the trajectory of his business, the importance of culture for a successful gym, mistakes he made in training methodology as a younger grappler, when to develop your toughness, the process of developing the "Kimura Trap System," the benefits of drilling, winning bronze at the 2009 ADCC World Championships, tips on time management, the importance of recovery as you age, how to train optimally, and his thoughts on the ADCC and CJI. If you want to learn more from David, check out https://davidmma.com/join Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

TJ graduated from the US Air Force Academy in 1999 with a degree in Behavioral Sciences. Over the next several years he attended NATO's premier fighter pilot training course, EURO-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training (ENJJPT) and became an F-16 fighter pilot. He served overseas in Korea and deployed to Iraq as a combat flight lead, and was recognized as the Hill Air Force Base Flight Lead of the Year in 2005. Later he served as an instructor and evaluator pilot at ENJJPT, overseeing student training and managing several operational components of the program. During that time he also earned an MBA from Texas A&M - Commerce. He retired after more than 20 years of service in 2019. TJ is also a Jiu-Jitsu Brown Belt and the Vice President of the “We Defy Foundation.” On this episode, TJ discusses his time in the military as a fighter pilot, what he enjoyed most about being a fighter pilot, why he started Jiu-Jitsu, the importance of Jiu-Jitsu and a community for military veterans, how he got involved with the “We Defy Foundation,” the importance of research to assist with funding, the mission of the “We Defy Foundation," how "We Defy" has impacted the lives of military veterans, learning how to deal with failure through Jiu-Jitsu, and how stopping competing can improve your Jiu-Jitsu. Learn more about the "We Defy Foundation" here: https://wedefyfoundation.org/ Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the podcast, Chewy and Eugene are joined by Jason "Blind Fury" Keaton. Jason is a BJJ black belt, musician, and owner of Blind Fury Jiu-Jitsu Academy. Jason discusses his start in martial arts, first starting his training in Wing Chun and then transitioning to BJJ in 1996, what it was like learning martial arts with visual impairment, how learning Wing Chun helped with learning BJJ, training as much as possible as a younger grappler, meeting Renato Tavares, the evolution of BJJ training, improving your BJJ by working from your worst positions, how to tell if you train at a good gym, how he developed an effective side control, staying healthy as you get older, coming back from a severe neck injury, how learning music transfers to BJJ, and how he got the nickname “Blind Fury.” Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast  

On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss how setting expectations in Jiu-Jitsu can make you fragile as well as lead to frustration in training. We also discuss how to build a healthy ego in Jiu-Jitsu. We talk about getting caught by less experienced training partners, how we are constantly changing, the importance of having a plan, the book “The Worry Cure,” for dealing with rumination, what we get wrong about the ego, how to help students get out of a rut, focusing on the “small wins” in training, and how competing can help your ego and build more grit. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss the best advice they would give or wish they got through each belt rank in Jiu-Jitsu. We also discuss the most powerful technique to employ in BJJ (learn to experiment, how to avoid stagnation in BJJ, and the benefit of teaching. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the podcast, Chewy and Eugene discuss two rules for Jiu-Jitsu. Rule #1 - Expect to get thrown off a horse into a pile of manure. Chewy shares a story of getting thrown off of a horse and how the expectation of this possibility helped with the discomfort and difficulty of the process of learning to ride. We discuss the realization that struggles and difficulties are a part of getting better at Jiu-Jitsu, expect that there will be difficulties with learning Jiu-Jitsu, why failure is the "buy in" for improving, avoiding failure will hold you back, and the goal in training should be to develop skills. Rule #2 - When your lungs are burning…look fresh! Chewy shares a story of a tough tournament match where even though he was tired, looking fresh gave him the edge over his opponent. We also discuss why showing fatigue will give your opponent a boost, the importance of paying attention to your opponent's breathing pattern, how much of Jiu-Jitsu is mental vs. physical, why the physical precedes the mental when building confidence, why Jiu-Jitsu is a philosophy of doing, update your ego through challenging yourself, and move towards your fears. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the podcast we are joined by Michael Pixley. Michael is a Jiu-Jitsu purple belt training out of Pedigo Submission Fighting, he is the NAIA 2017 National Champion and Wrestler of The Year, 2019 NCAA Division 2 National Champion, 2x World and Pan Am Champion at Blue Belt, and the 2024 ADCC West Coast Trials winner in the

On this episode of the podcast, Chewy and Eugene do a live recording of the podcast and discuss the importance of building a solid system of escapes from side control.  We also discuss if escaping from side control is the most difficult position to escape from, the approach you should take when escaping side control and what people lack the most, if escaping is a skill learned in the instructional setting or from experience, the biggest misconception when escaping side control, one quality or attribute to give you the ability to become amazing at escapes, and the “Iron Squirrel.”  Q&A:  Is it better to look for escapes such as shrimping, ghost escape, inverting, or waiting on your opponent to move? If Chewy has learned something new when teaching a technique? What side control escapes chain together well based on common reactions? What's the best way to escape once you get flattened out? What is the best way to shoot a single leg takedown? How to improve cardio for BJJ? What to do when you're the smallest person in the gym? How to implement information from an instructional into training? If you're interested in picking up Chewy's new side control escape series check out the link: https://www.chewjitsu.io/sales-page1718800981045 Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss the importance of building a strong defensive side control to create a better offensive Jiu-Jitsu game. We discuss how initially we focus on bottom side control defense as newer grapplers, but eventually stop focusing on this part of our game. We also discuss why having poor defense can make your offense less effective, how a solid defense will improve your submission rate in competition, why confidence in your escapes works like a safety net, why grapplers panic in bottom side control, the first step in getting better at side control escapes, why Chewy decided to start focusing on his bottom side control escapes as a BJJ brown belt, the biggest and most common mistakes in relation to escapes and defense, and the importance of mastering a handful of techniques. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss the impact the Craig Jones Invitational (CJI) will have on the state of grappling and the upcoming ADCC world championships. We discuss our thoughts on Craig's motives and strategy when promoting the CJI, the importance of using high quality production to attract spectators, the increased attention that Craig Jones and the CJI has brought to grappling, why the timing of the CJI is bad for the athletes, the pros and cons of splitting the elite grapplers between the two tournaments, the CJI ruleset, the Gabi Garcia vs Craig Jones superfight, and the results of Chewy's Instagram poll of whether people would attend the CJI, ADCC, or neither. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode, we answer the question of whether you should always focus on “position before submission” in Jiu-Jitsu. We discuss getting chokes without solidifying a position, using leg locks, advantageous positions that aren't the “traditional”BJJ positions, the benefits of position before submission for beginners, how submissions are initiated through transitions, how tournament rules dictate the grappling style, a rule that is commonly broken in Jiu-Jitsu, and the importance of being coachable. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode of the podcast, Chewy and Eugene answer 5 questions that we received from podcast listeners. We discuss the following topics: What's the best way to “unlock” the hips? What is Chewy's favorite historical time period? Should Jiu-Jitsu have an “off season”? Where do we see BJJ evolve in the next 5-15 years? What are some strategies for dealing with the negative voice inside you when you get smashed in training? Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast

On this episode, Chewy and Eugene are joined by BJJ black belt and founder of “BJJ After 40,” Mike Bidwell. Mike joins the podcast to discuss his start in traditional martial arts, how stretching his hips improved the health of his knees, Mike's favorite stretch to improve hip flexibility, Mike's most important rule to follow before full rolling, how to “clear the calculator,” the importance of having Jiu-Jitsu as a release, the two critical questions to ask yourself in BJJ, how training evolves as you get older, the utilization of “Precovery,” active recovery, the "Pomodoro Method," how to build good habits, who inspired Mike's coaching, recovering from an injury, how Mike discovered BJJ, and the idea behind "BJJ After 40." To check out the full tournament schedule for The Chewjitsu Open head over to https://chewjitsu.nuwaycombat.com/ Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30 and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out https://www.epicrollbjj.com and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast